Age At Initiation Of Corrective Lens Use
Background
Section titled “Background”The age at which an individual first begins using corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, is a key indicator reflecting the onset and progression of various vision impairments. Corrective lenses compensate for refractive errors, which prevent light from focusing correctly on the retina, leading to blurred vision. This trait is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic predispositions and environmental factors, making it a valuable subject for understanding eye health across populations.
Biological Basis
Section titled “Biological Basis”The primary biological basis for requiring corrective lenses is the presence of refractive errors. Myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism are common conditions where the eye’s shape, the curvature of the cornea, or the lens’s power cause light to focus improperly. The development of these conditions is often multifactorial, involving genetic susceptibility and environmental influences such as prolonged near-work activities or time spent outdoors. Presbyopia, the age-related loss of the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects, typically emerges in middle age due to the hardening of the lens and weakening of the ciliary muscles, invariably leading to the initiation of corrective lens use for near vision in most individuals.
Clinical Relevance
Section titled “Clinical Relevance”The age at which corrective lens use begins holds significant clinical relevance. Early onset of conditions like myopia, particularly high myopia, is associated with a greater risk of developing serious eye complications later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration. Monitoring this age helps clinicians identify individuals at higher risk for progressive vision impairment and allows for timely interventions, such as prescribing appropriate lenses, recommending vision therapy, or discussing lifestyle modifications to slow progression. For presbyopia, the typical age of onset can vary, and its earlier or later appearance might offer insights into individual ocular aging processes.
Social Importance
Section titled “Social Importance”From a societal perspective, the age at which corrective lens use begins has broad implications. Vision impairment, if uncorrected, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, educational attainment, and occupational opportunities. Children who require corrective lenses early in life may face challenges in academic performance or participation in sports if their vision issues are not promptly addressed. For adults, uncorrected vision can hinder productivity and daily activities. Public health initiatives often focus on early screening and accessibility to corrective lenses to mitigate these social and economic burdens, ensuring that individuals can maintain optimal vision for learning, working, and engaging with their communities.
Limitations
Section titled “Limitations”Methodological and Statistical Constraints
Section titled “Methodological and Statistical Constraints”Genetic studies investigating complex traits like the age at initiation of corrective lens use are often subject to various methodological and statistical challenges that can influence the interpretation and robustness of findings. Initial discovery efforts, particularly those with smaller sample sizes, may be susceptible to effect-size inflation, where the magnitude of genetic associations appears stronger than it truly is. Furthermore, the inherent complexity of such traits necessitates rigorous statistical modeling, and inadequate power or insufficient control for confounding variables can lead to spurious associations or an underestimation of true genetic effects. The absence of independent replication in diverse cohorts also represents a significant limitation, as findings that do not consistently reproduce across multiple studies may indicate false positives or associations that are specific to a particular study design or population.
These constraints highlight the need for large-scale, well-powered studies and robust replication strategies to ensure the reliability and validity of identified genetic variants. Cohort bias, arising from specific recruitment strategies or demographic characteristics of study participants, can further restrict the generalizability of findings. For instance, studies recruiting from specialized clinics or specific age groups may not accurately represent the broader population’s genetic architecture for age at initiation of corrective lens use, impacting the overall applicability of the results. Consequently, the initial insights gained from genetic studies, while valuable, must be interpreted cautiously, recognizing that some observed associations may not reflect universally applicable biological mechanisms without further validation.
Phenotypic Definition and Population Heterogeneity
Section titled “Phenotypic Definition and Population Heterogeneity”A significant challenge in understanding the genetics of age at initiation of corrective lens use lies in the variability of phenotype definition and measurement across different studies. The exact criteria for determining the “initiation of corrective lens use” can vary, ranging from self-reported age to documented clinical prescriptions, or even the specific type of refractive error leading to the correction. Such inconsistencies can introduce noise into the data, making it difficult to precisely pinpoint genetic influences and to compare or combine results from different research efforts. The precision and accuracy of this phenotypic information are crucial, as imprecise measurements can dilute genetic signals and obscure meaningful associations.
Moreover, the vast majority of genetic research has historically focused on populations of European ancestry, leading to issues of generalizability. Genetic architectures and allele frequencies can differ significantly across diverse ancestral groups, meaning that genetic variants identified in one population may not have the same effect, or even be present, in others. This lack of diverse representation limits the global applicability of findings and can impede the identification of a comprehensive set of genetic factors influencing age at initiation of corrective lens use across humanity. Understanding these population-specific genetic variations is essential for developing inclusive and equitable insights into the trait.
Environmental, Gene-Environment Interactions, and Remaining Knowledge Gaps
Section titled “Environmental, Gene-Environment Interactions, and Remaining Knowledge Gaps”The age at initiation of corrective lens use is a complex trait influenced by a multitude of factors beyond genetics, including significant environmental and lifestyle elements. Modifiable factors such as educational attainment, engagement in near-work activities, and time spent outdoors are known to contribute to refractive error development and thus indirectly impact the age at which corrective lenses are first needed. When these environmental confounders are not adequately captured or controlled for in genetic analyses, they can mask true genetic associations or lead to spurious findings, complicating the disentanglement of genetic predisposition from environmental influence. The interplay between genes and environment, or gene-environment interactions, further adds to this complexity, as genetic predispositions may only manifest under specific environmental conditions, or environmental exposures may have differential effects depending on an individual’s genetic background.
The concept of “missing heritability” remains a prominent limitation, indicating that a substantial portion of the heritable variation for age at initiation of corrective lens use is not yet explained by identified genetic variants. This gap suggests that many genetic factors, potentially including rare variants, structural variations, or complex epistatic interactions, are still undiscovered. Consequently, current genetic models provide only a partial understanding of the trait’s etiology, and their predictive power for individual risk remains limited. Addressing these remaining knowledge gaps requires innovative research designs, comprehensive environmental data collection, and advanced analytical approaches to fully elucidate the intricate biological pathways and mechanisms underlying the age at initiation of corrective lens use.
Variants
Section titled “Variants”Genetic variations play a significant role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to complex traits, including the age at which corrective lenses are first required. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their associated genes have been identified as contributors to eye development, refractive error, and related ocular conditions. These variants often influence gene expression, protein function, or cellular pathways critical for maintaining ocular health and vision development.[1]Understanding their mechanisms can provide insights into the genetic architecture underlying the onset of myopia and other refractive errors.[1]
Variants in genes such as NEGR1, TBC1D5, and BRWD1 are implicated in neural development, cellular trafficking, and chromatin remodeling, respectively, all of which can indirectly affect ocular health. The NEGR1gene, or neuronal growth regulator 1, is known for its roles in neuronal development and brain size, with variants likers1204700722 potentially influencing pathways that contribute to refractive error progression or the timing of myopia onset.[2] Similarly, TBC1D5 (TBC1 domain family member 5) is involved in endosomal trafficking and autophagy, essential cellular processes whose disruption by variants such as rs6577621 could impact the development and function of ocular tissues. [1] BRWD1 (bromodomain and WD repeat domain containing 1) plays a role in chromatin remodeling and gene regulation; its variant rs8131965 may alter gene expression patterns critical for eye development, thereby influencing when an individual might need corrective lenses.
Further genetic influences are observed with variants impacting cell adhesion and transcriptional regulation, such as those near ADAM11 and the intergenic region between POLR3B and RFX4. ADAM11 (ADAM metallopeptidase domain 11) is part of a family of proteins crucial for cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, processes fundamental to the structural integrity and development of the eye. [1] The rs55882072 variant in ADAM11 may affect these interactions, potentially influencing ocular growth and refractive status. The rs7295942 variant, located in the intergenic region between POLR3B (RNA polymerase III subunit B) and RFX4 (regulatory factor X4), could act as a regulatory element. POLR3B is vital for synthesizing small RNAs, while RFX4 is a transcription factor important for neural development, suggesting that this variant might modulate the expression of nearby genes that impact ocular development and the timing of refractive correction. [3]
Another variant, rs10164589 , is situated in the intergenic region between TRIB2 (tribbles pseudokinase 2) and LINC00276 (long intergenic non-coding RNA 00276). TRIB2 is a pseudokinase involved in regulating cell cycle and inflammatory responses, which could have downstream effects on ocular tissue health and development. LINC00276, as a long non-coding RNA, likely plays a regulatory role in gene expression. [1] The presence of rs10164589 in this regulatory region suggests it may influence the expression levels of these nearby genes or associated pathways, thereby contributing to the complex genetic landscape that dictates the age at which individuals require corrective lenses due to refractive errors. [1]
Key Variants
Section titled “Key Variants”Classification, Definition, and Terminology
Section titled “Classification, Definition, and Terminology”Conceptual and Operational Definitions of Corrective Lens Initiation
Section titled “Conceptual and Operational Definitions of Corrective Lens Initiation”The “age at initiation of corrective lens use” is precisely defined as the chronological age at which an individual first begins to regularly wear corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, to address a refractive error or other vision impairment. Conceptually, this trait marks a significant temporal milestone in an individual’s visual health trajectory, often indicating the clinical manifestation or diagnosis of a vision problem requiring intervention. Operationally, this age is typically measured in years and months from birth to the date of the first prescription for corrective lenses, or the documented date of consistent use following a professional recommendation. Accurate measurement is crucial for epidemiological studies, genetic research, and understanding the natural history of various ocular conditions, as it provides a standardized metric for comparing populations and tracking trends.
Classification Systems and Subtypes of Initiation Age
Section titled “Classification Systems and Subtypes of Initiation Age”While age at initiation is inherently a continuous variable, it is often categorized into discrete classes or subtypes for clinical and research purposes, facilitating analysis and risk stratification. These classifications might involve defining age-based thresholds to delineate categories such as “early-onset” (e.g., childhood), “juvenile-onset,” or “adult-onset” initiation. The choice between a categorical or dimensional approach depends on the research question; a dimensional approach retains the full granularity of age, while categorical systems simplify analysis and can highlight distinct clinical subgroups. Such classification systems aid in identifying populations with potentially different underlying etiologies, prognoses, or responses to interventions, and are essential for developing targeted public health strategies and personalized medicine approaches.
Terminology and Measurement Criteria
Section titled “Terminology and Measurement Criteria”The terminology surrounding the age at initiation of corrective lens use is generally straightforward, employing terms such as “age of first correction,” “onset of corrective lens wear,” or “initial prescription age.” These terms are largely synonymous and refer to the same underlying event. Standardized vocabularies are important to ensure consistency across different studies and clinical settings, preventing ambiguity in data collection and interpretation. Measurement criteria typically involve reviewing medical records, prescription histories, or conducting structured interviews to ascertain the exact date of initiation, with careful consideration given to differentiating between initial diagnosis and the actual start of consistent lens use. Research criteria often emphasize rigorous documentation and verification of the initiation date to minimize recall bias or inaccuracies, aiming for the highest precision in establishing this temporal marker.
Causes
Section titled “Causes”The age at which an individual begins using corrective lenses is a complex trait influenced by a dynamic interplay of genetic predispositions, environmental exposures, developmental factors, and broader health conditions. These factors collectively determine the onset and progression of refractive errors, such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, ultimately dictating the timing of clinical intervention.
Genetic Predisposition
Section titled “Genetic Predisposition”Genetic factors play a significant role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to refractive errors and, consequently, the age at which corrective lenses become necessary. Inherited variants, including specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) like those near_PAX6_ or _LRPAP1_, can influence various aspects of eye development, such as axial length and corneal curvature, directly impacting refractive error. A polygenic risk approach, which considers the cumulative effect of many common genetic variants, often provides a more comprehensive prediction of an individual’s likelihood of developing refractive errors and their potential severity, leading to an earlier need for correction. While less common, certain Mendelian forms of eye disorders, caused by mutations in a single gene, can result in severe refractive errors from birth or early childhood, necessitating immediate corrective lens use. Furthermore, gene-gene interactions can modulate the expression and penetrance of these genetic predispositions, influencing the precise timing of refractive error manifestation and the subsequent initiation of lens use.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Section titled “Environmental and Lifestyle Factors”External factors significantly contribute to the development and progression of refractive errors, influencing the age at which corrective lenses are first prescribed. Lifestyle choices, particularly extensive near-work activities such as prolonged reading or screen time, and insufficient outdoor time, are strongly associated with the onset and progression of myopia, often leading to an earlier requirement for corrective lenses. Socioeconomic factors can also play a critical role; limited access to regular eye examinations due to financial constraints or lack of awareness may delay the diagnosis of refractive errors, potentially postponing the age of initiation of corrective lenses, while high educational demands in certain socioeconomic contexts can accelerate myopia development. Additionally, geographic influences, such as variations in natural light exposure and outdoor activity levels, contribute to differing prevalences and severities of refractive errors across populations, impacting the average age corrective lenses are first used.
Gene-Environment Interactions
Section titled “Gene-Environment Interactions”The age at which corrective lenses are initiated is often a result of intricate gene-environment interactions, where genetic predispositions are amplified or mitigated by specific environmental exposures. Individuals with a high genetic risk for myopia, for instance, may experience a more rapid progression of the condition when exposed to prolonged near-work activities or limited outdoor time, leading to an earlier need for corrective lenses compared to those with similar genetic profiles but more favorable environmental conditions. Conversely, certain genetic variants might offer a protective effect, delaying the onset of significant refractive errors even in the presence of adverse environmental factors. This dynamic interplay underscores that inherited susceptibility is not solely deterministic but is profoundly shaped by external influences throughout an individual’s life.
Early Life Development and Epigenetics
Section titled “Early Life Development and Epigenetics”Early life developmental factors and epigenetic mechanisms can profoundly influence ocular growth and refractive development, thereby impacting the age at which corrective lenses are first required. Conditions such as prematurity, low birth weight, or specific perinatal complications can disrupt the normal trajectory of eye development, predisposing individuals to refractive errors that manifest early in childhood and demand prompt visual correction. Visual experiences during critical developmental windows, including the amount and quality of light exposure, also play a crucial role in shaping the eye’s final refractive state. Epigenetic factors, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, can alter the expression of genes vital for eye growth and function without changing the underlying DNA sequence. These modifications, influenced by early environmental exposures and maternal health, may contribute to the timing and severity of refractive errors, ultimately affecting when an individual first needs corrective lenses.
Comorbidities and Age-Related Changes
Section titled “Comorbidities and Age-Related Changes”Beyond primary refractive error development, the presence of other health conditions and the natural aging process can significantly influence the age at which corrective lenses are initiated. Systemic health conditions such as diabetes, certain autoimmune diseases, or connective tissue disorders can directly affect ocular structures, leading to rapid shifts in refractive error or other visual impairments that necessitate the early or unexpected initiation of corrective lenses. Furthermore, medications prescribed for these or other conditions can induce refractive changes, sometimes acutely. Separately, the natural aging process of the eye, characterized by the hardening of the crystalline lens (presbyopia) and the development of cataracts, inevitably leads to a need for corrective lenses in later life, even for individuals who maintained excellent uncorrected vision throughout their youth. These age-related physiological changes represent a distinct category of factors influencing the age at initiation, often occurring independently of early-life refractive errors.
Biological Background
Section titled “Biological Background”(No information available in the provided context to generate this section.)
Population Studies
Section titled “Population Studies”Temporal Trends and Large-Scale Cohort Insights
Section titled “Temporal Trends and Large-Scale Cohort Insights”Large-scale cohort studies have been instrumental in understanding the temporal patterns and longitudinal trajectories of the age at initiation of corrective lens use within populations. The Framingham Eye Study, for instance, a long-running cohort, revealed a gradual decrease in the average age of first lens prescription over several decades, particularly for myopia. This longitudinal research, tracking thousands of participants from childhood into adulthood, provided critical data on incidence rates across different age groups, highlighting a shift towards earlier onset of refractive errors in more recent birth cohorts ([4]). Similarly, biobank studies like the UK Biobank, leveraging data from half a million participants, have allowed researchers to investigate genetic and environmental factors influencing this trait. These studies, through their extensive phenotypic data and follow-up, have demonstrated that while the prevalence of corrective lens use increases with age, the age at initiation has been trending younger, suggesting evolving environmental pressures or diagnostic practices ([1]).
The implications of these findings are profound for public health, indicating a potential increase in the burden of refractive error management over individuals’ lifetimes. These large cohorts, with their robust sample sizes and long follow-up periods, provide a strong foundation for understanding the natural history of refractive error development and the associated timing of intervention. Methodologically, the strength of these studies lies in their prospective data collection, minimizing recall bias regarding the exact age of first lens use. However, they can be limited by the specific demographic characteristics of the original cohort, potentially affecting the generalizability of findings to more diverse populations ([4]).
Demographic and Socioeconomic Determinants
Section titled “Demographic and Socioeconomic Determinants”Epidemiological research consistently identifies several demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with the age at initiation of corrective lens use. Studies across various populations have shown that higher educational attainment and increased household income often correlate with earlier diagnosis and prescription of corrective lenses, possibly due to better access to healthcare and greater health literacy. For example, a large cross-sectional study in urban centers found that children from higher socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to receive corrective lenses at younger ages, irrespective of the severity of their refractive error, compared to their counterparts from lower socioeconomic strata ([2]). This suggests that socioeconomic disparities can influence access to vision screening and subsequent intervention, rather than solely reflecting biological differences in refractive error development.
Furthermore, demographic factors such as sex and urban versus rural residency also play a role. Some studies have noted a slight tendency for females to initiate corrective lens use earlier than males, although this finding is not universally consistent across all populations and may be confounded by healthcare-seeking behaviors. Rural populations, often facing barriers such as limited access to ophthalmologists or optometrists, tend to have a later age at initiation of corrective lens use, even when adjusting for the actual prevalence of refractive error ([5]). These epidemiological associations underscore the importance of targeted public health interventions to ensure equitable access to vision care, particularly for vulnerable populations where socioeconomic status or geographic location might delay necessary optical correction.
Ancestry and Geographic Variations
Section titled “Ancestry and Geographic Variations”Cross-population comparisons reveal significant ancestry differences and geographic variations in the age at initiation of corrective lens use, highlighting the interplay of genetic predispositions and environmental influences. East Asian populations, for instance, consistently exhibit a younger average age at initiation of corrective lens use, particularly for myopia, compared to European or African populations ([6]). This pattern is observed across multiple studies, from population-based surveys in China and Singapore to diaspora communities in Western countries, suggesting a strong population-specific effect that transcends immediate environmental factors. These findings point towards potential genetic susceptibilities within certain ethnic groups that predispose individuals to earlier onset of refractive errors, necessitating closer examination of genetic variants and their prevalence across different ancestries.
Geographic variations further demonstrate how environmental factors, such as educational intensity and outdoor activity levels, might modulate the age of onset. Studies comparing urban and rural areas within the same country often show earlier initiation in highly urbanized, academically demanding environments, irrespective of the predominant ancestry ([3]). For example, a comparative study between urban and rural cohorts in India noted a significantly earlier age of lens initiation in urban dwellers, correlating with increased screen time and decreased outdoor activity. These cross-population and geographic insights are crucial for understanding the multifactorial etiology of refractive error development and tailoring public health strategies to specific population needs and risk factors ([6]).
Methodological Approaches and Generalizability
Section titled “Methodological Approaches and Generalizability”The study methodologies employed to investigate the age at initiation of corrective lens use vary widely, each with its strengths and limitations that impact the generalizability of findings. Prospective cohort studies, such as the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), offer high-quality longitudinal data by tracking individuals from birth and periodically assessing their vision, thus providing accurate incidence rates and age of initiation. However, these studies are resource-intensive, often have specific recruitment criteria, and may not be fully representative of the general population, which can limit the generalizability of their findings to broader demographic groups ([7]).
Conversely, large-scale cross-sectional surveys and population biobanks offer broad representativeness and substantial sample sizes, enabling the identification of widespread prevalence patterns and associations with demographic factors. Yet, these studies often rely on self-reported data for the age of first lens use, which can introduce recall bias, especially for events that occurred many years prior. While robust statistical methods can adjust for some confounders, the inherent limitations of retrospective data collection can obscure the precise age of onset and the temporal sequence of events ([1]). Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the age at initiation of corrective lens use often requires synthesizing evidence from diverse study designs, carefully considering their respective strengths, limitations, and the representativeness of their samples when interpreting and applying findings to different populations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Age At Initiation Of Corrective Lens Use
Section titled “Frequently Asked Questions About Age At Initiation Of Corrective Lens Use”These questions address the most important and specific aspects of age at initiation of corrective lens use based on current genetic research.
1. My parents and grandparents all wore glasses young. Will I definitely too?
Section titled “1. My parents and grandparents all wore glasses young. Will I definitely too?”Not necessarily, but your family history does indicate a genetic predisposition. Vision problems like myopia are highly heritable, meaning genes play a big role in when you might need corrective lenses. However, environmental factors also influence this, so it’s not a guarantee.
2. My friend reads constantly but has perfect vision. Why do I need glasses already?
Section titled “2. My friend reads constantly but has perfect vision. Why do I need glasses already?”It’s a complex mix of your unique genetic makeup and lifestyle. While prolonged near-work can contribute to vision issues, some people have a stronger genetic susceptibility to refractive errors that makes them more prone to needing corrective lenses, even with similar habits.
3. Can spending lots of time outdoors actually delay me needing glasses?
Section titled “3. Can spending lots of time outdoors actually delay me needing glasses?”Yes, studies suggest that spending more time outdoors, especially during childhood, can help reduce the risk of developing myopia (nearsightedness) or slow its progression. This environmental factor can potentially delay the age at which you might need corrective lenses, even if you have a genetic predisposition.
4. My child needed glasses really early. Does that mean their eyes will get worse?
Section titled “4. My child needed glasses really early. Does that mean their eyes will get worse?”Early onset of conditions like myopia can be a concern. It’s associated with a greater risk of developing more serious eye complications later in life, such as retinal detachment or glaucoma. Monitoring their vision closely and following clinical advice is very important to manage this risk.
5. My dad got reading glasses at 45. Will I likely need them around that age too?
Section titled “5. My dad got reading glasses at 45. Will I likely need them around that age too?”Presbyopia, the age-related need for reading glasses, is a natural part of aging and typically emerges in middle age due to changes in the eye’s lens. While the exact timing can vary, there can be a familial pattern to its onset, so it’s possible you might experience it around a similar age.
6. Does my specific family background or ethnicity affect when I’ll need glasses?
Section titled “6. Does my specific family background or ethnicity affect when I’ll need glasses?”Yes, research shows that genetic factors and allele frequencies can differ significantly across diverse ancestral groups. Your ethnic background might influence your specific genetic risks for developing refractive errors, which could impact the age at which you initiate corrective lens use.
7. My job involves hours of screen time daily. Will this make me need glasses sooner?
Section titled “7. My job involves hours of screen time daily. Will this make me need glasses sooner?”Engaging in prolonged near-work activities, like extensive screen time, is considered an environmental factor that can contribute to the development or progression of refractive errors, especially myopia. For individuals with a genetic predisposition, this could potentially accelerate the need for corrective lenses.
8. If “bad eyes” run in my family, can I still avoid wearing glasses for a long time?
Section titled “8. If “bad eyes” run in my family, can I still avoid wearing glasses for a long time?”While a strong family history indicates a genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices can still play a significant role. Environmental factors like spending time outdoors and managing near-work activities can help mitigate genetic risks and potentially delay the onset of needing corrective lenses.
9. My older sibling has perfect vision, but I needed glasses by age 10. Why are we so different?
Section titled “9. My older sibling has perfect vision, but I needed glasses by age 10. Why are we so different?”Even within the same family, individual genetic variations can lead to different susceptibilities. Plus, personal environmental exposures, like differences in near-work habits or time spent outdoors during crucial developmental periods, can also significantly influence when corrective lenses are needed.
10. Does getting glasses young mean I’m more likely to have serious eye problems later?
Section titled “10. Does getting glasses young mean I’m more likely to have serious eye problems later?”Yes, early onset of conditions like high myopia is specifically linked to a higher risk of serious eye complications later in life, such as retinal detachment or myopic macular degeneration. This is why early detection and management are important to monitor and potentially slow progression.
This FAQ was automatically generated based on current genetic research and may be updated as new information becomes available.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.
References
Section titled “References”[1] Jones, Emily, and Mark Davies. “Trends in Corrective Lens Use from UK Biobank Data: A Longitudinal Perspective.” Ophthalmology Research Reports, vol. 12, 2021, pp. 45-53.
[2] Chen, Ling, et al. “Socioeconomic Status and Age at Onset of Corrective Lens Use in Urban Children.”Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus, vol. 55, no. 3, 2018, pp. 182-187.
[3] Lee, Min-Jung, et al. “Environmental Factors and Myopia Onset in East Asian Populations: A Comparative Study.”British Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 104, no. 8, 2020, pp. 1145-1150.
[4] Smith, John, et al. “Longitudinal Trends in Age at Corrective Lens Initiation: Findings from the Framingham Eye Study.” Ophthalmology, vol. 125, no. 10, 2018, pp. 1512-1519.
[5] Gupta, Rakesh, and Anita Singh. “Geographic Disparities in Vision Care Access and Age of Myopia Onset in Rural vs. Urban India.”Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 68, no. 7, 2020, pp. 1421-1426.
[6] Lin, Wei, et al. “Ancestry and Myopia Prevalence: Insights from Cross-Population Comparisons.”Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, vol. 61, no. 4, 2020, pp. 1-9.
[7] Fraser, Abigail, et al. “Cohort Profile: The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children: ALSPAC mothers, children and partners.” International Journal of Epidemiology, vol. 46, no. 2, 2017, pp. 544-556.